Airfield Developments


Last updated 14 Jan 2010

There always seems to be someone digging up part of the airfield! This page takes a closer look at what is going on with airside works and explains the background and objectives of current projects, and those in prospect...

There is presently a large amount of taxiway construction works underway or planned.  This is on the one hand a replacement of older and worn-out taxiway and aprons, but is also the beginning of the construction of new facilities and a re-modelling of the airfield layout in line with the Airport Master Plan.   The present programme started in 2005 and will continue over the next few years. Despite a current downturn in traffic passing through the airport there is a need to ensure that pavements remain in serviceable condition. 

There is little currently planned by way of new developments. There will be a major repair and overlay of Taxiway Alpha between LInks B and AE.  There will also be a complete refurbishment of Runway 1 starting late 2010 into late 2011.

All this development has the potential to cause disruption to normal operations, and there are hazards associated with construction works on a busy airfield.  The operational planning that goes into making all this happen is a joint effort between MAG Projects (the Project Managers), and MA Airfield Operations Planning (representing the airfield users).  The scale of the planning depends of course on the scale of the project but it can involve many meetings between the managers, engineers, designers, regulators, and users. Drawings are produced and discussed, hazard analysis workshops held, and finally the design goes forward and notices are sent out informing all of the development and its impacts. 

The main projects currently in progress or in planning are: